Public/Private Partnerships in Aging. Working with the Business Community on Eldercare. A Primer for the Aging Network.

Levin, Robert; And Others

This manual is intended to assist network agencies dealing with aging to educate and develop programs for the business community to address the needs of employed caregivers and their dependents. Chapter I defines "eldercare," discusses the role of caregivers in the work force, describes caregiver tasks and relationships, and outlines basic needs of caregivers. Chapter II presents a rationale for the participation of aging network agencies in developing employer-based eldercare programs. These types of programs with which businesses are becoming involved are described: information and referral; informational resources; seminars, workshops, and forums; support groups; training for business managers and employee assistance staff; caregivers' fairs; written materials for employee publications; case management; directory of services/resource manual; respite care; caregiver library; and employee surveys. Brief descriptions follow of several employers' programs in eldercare. Chapter III focuses on approaching the business community about eldercare. It addresses selecting businesses, approaching targeted businesses, assessing the competition, determining whom to approach, and determining fee schedules. Section IV poses five problems associated with making an eldercare program appealing to employers and suggests strategies to solve them. Chapter V offers suggestions on how State Units on Aging can serve in a leadership role in developing eldercare programs. An appendix lists print and nonprint resources. (YLB)